New Orleans, LA – On New Year’s Day, Bourbon Street in New Orleans became the epicenter of tragedy as a terrorist attack claimed the lives of 15 individuals and injured dozens more. Among those who lost their lives was 25-year-old Billy DiMaio, a vibrant and accomplished young man who had built a promising life for himself in New Jersey after growing up on Long Island, New York.
Billy was more than just a name on the list of victims—he was a cherished son, a beloved friend, and a rising star in the media industry. His untimely death has left an indelible void in the hearts of those who knew him, as well as in the community he touched with his generosity, determination, and kindness.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Billy worked as an account executive at Audacy, one of the nation’s leading media companies headquartered in New York. Known for his exceptional work ethic and creative problem-solving, Billy was admired by colleagues and clients alike. He had quickly risen through the ranks, securing his position as a valued member of the Audacy team.
In a statement released following the news of Billy’s passing, Audacy expressed their collective grief:
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Billy DiMaio, a New York-based Account Executive, in the terrorist attack in New Orleans. Beyond his professional achievements, Billy will be fondly remembered for his unwavering work ethic, positive attitude, and kindness. He was a true asset to the Audacy team, and his contributions and presence will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Billy’s family and friends during this exceedingly difficult time, and we extend our deepest sympathies to them and every member of the Audacy family who had the privilege of working with him.”
Colleagues describe Billy as someone who brought enthusiasm and energy to every project he worked on. “He wasn’t just a colleague—he was a friend,” said Sarah Lambert, one of Billy’s teammates. “Billy had this ability to light up the room with his smile and his sense of humor. He had so much ahead of him.”
A Life Filled with Promise
Born and raised on Long Island, Billy DiMaio had always been ambitious. Friends and family recall his entrepreneurial spirit from a young age, as he constantly sought ways to challenge himself and grow. After excelling academically in high school, Billy attended college in New Jersey, where he discovered his passion for media and communications.
Billy’s move to New Jersey wasn’t just about pursuing his career—it was about building a life filled with purpose and joy. Those close to him recall his deep connections with friends and the love he had for his community.
His longtime friend, Michael Russo, shared his heartbreak over Billy’s loss:
“Billy was the type of person you could always count on. Whether you needed advice, a laugh, or just someone to listen, he was always there. I can’t wrap my head around the fact that he’s gone. It’s not fair. He had so much to offer the world, and it’s just devastating that he won’t get to fulfill all the dreams he had.”
Billy’s parents, Carol and Thomas DiMaio, released a statement describing their son as “an incredible young man with a bright future, who was taken from us far too soon.” They continued:
“Billy was our pride and joy. He had the biggest heart, and he always made time for the people he loved. We are shattered by this loss, but we are grateful for the 25 years we had with him. He made us proud every single day.”
The Tragic Attack on Bourbon Street
The attack occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day when the suspect, 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, allegedly drove a truck into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street. The horrific act, which federal authorities have classified as an act of domestic terrorism, sent shockwaves through the city and the nation.
Billy had traveled to New Orleans with a group of friends to celebrate the new year. What was meant to be a joyful start to 2025 turned into a nightmare for those who knew him.
Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos of the attack, describing how the truck barreled through the crowd without warning. “It was like something out of a movie, but worse,” said one survivor, who asked to remain anonymous. “People were screaming, running in every direction. I’ll never forget the sound.”
Billy was one of the 15 victims killed in the attack. His friends, who survived, described the moments leading up to the tragedy. “We were all just having a good time, celebrating the new year. And then everything changed,” said one friend. “Billy didn’t deserve this. None of the victims did.”
A Community in Mourning
Billy’s death has left his hometown on Long Island and his adopted community in New Jersey in mourning. Vigils have been held in his honor, with hundreds gathering to pay their respects and celebrate his life.
The DiMaio family has set up a memorial fund in Billy’s name, with proceeds going toward scholarships for students pursuing careers in media and communications—fields that Billy was so passionate about.
“We want to honor Billy’s legacy by helping others achieve their dreams, just as he was working so hard to achieve his own,” said Carol DiMaio.
A Nation Grappling with Violence
Billy’s death is one of many devastating losses from the New Year’s Day attack. As federal investigators piece together the events that led to the tragedy, the incident has reignited conversations about the importance of community safety, counterterrorism efforts, and mental health resources.
The FBI has confirmed that the suspect, Jabbar, acted alone and was motivated by extremist ideologies. Authorities continue to examine his background and possible influences, but no additional suspects have been identified.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has vowed to strengthen security measures across the state to prevent such attacks in the future. “We cannot allow tragedies like this to continue,” Landry said in a press conference. “We owe it to victims like Billy DiMaio and their families to ensure that their deaths were not in vain.”
Remembering Billy
As the investigation continues, those who knew and loved Billy are focusing on remembering the man he was and the impact he had on their lives.
His sister, Jenna DiMaio, shared a poignant tribute:
“Billy was more than my brother—he was my best friend. I’ll miss his jokes, his advice, and the way he could always make me feel better, no matter what. He was my rock, and I don’t know how to move forward without him. But I know he’d want us to stay strong. That’s who he was—always lifting people up.”
Billy’s story is one of promise, ambition, and kindness—a life tragically cut short but one that will continue to inspire those who knew him. His legacy serves as a reminder of the human cost of violence and the resilience of communities in the face of unimaginable loss.
For those wishing to honor Billy’s memory, the family encourages donations to the memorial fund and asks that people hold their loved ones close.
“Love each other, cherish each other,” said Thomas DiMaio. “Billy would want that. He lived his life with so much love, and that’s what we’ll remember.”
Billy DiMaio’s life, though tragically brief, was a testament to the power of kindness, ambition, and love. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.